Reporter: An "American idol" runner-up. &#9834; I can see it in your eyes &#9834; Reporter: Is running for congress. I'll need your help. Reporter: In a video posted on his website Wednesday clay Aiken announced his candidacy as a democrat vying for a congressional seat in north Carolina. The campaign video revealing a different side of the singer, sharing his humble beginnings. For eight months we stayed in this living room and threat on a mattress on the floor. Reporter: An upbringing he says allows him to relate to the hardships of others. For most Americans there are no golden tickets. At least not like the kind you see on touchdown. Reporter: Aiken has done his fair share of advocacy work over the years working on a presidential commission for people with disabilities, traveling the word for unicef and speaking out against lgbt discrimination. I think the qualifications for representing people is caring about them and listening to them. Reporter: The incumbent second term republican Renee elmers has already poked fun at his celebrity status. We know he didn't even fare all that well, he was runner-up. Oh, snap. Reporter: While stars like Arnold schwarzenegger and Al Franken have shined bright, celebrity status does not guarantee political success. It means that you've got national name recognition, a fund raising base, excitement generated around your candidacy. The flip side is the scrutiny. Reporter: An openly gay single dad is running in a conservative district in a state with a republican governor and a gop run state legislature. One race where this political newcomer has to hit all the right notes. Realistically clay Aiken is a long shot. It will be a fierce fight.

This transcript has been automatically generated and may not be 100% accurate.

Sources say the singer is "actively considering" a run in his home state of North Carolina.

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